Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) ACS Grade

Product Overview

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) ACS Grade (CAS 78-93-3) is a high-purity, colorless, highly volatile organic solvent. Also known as 2-Butanone, this ACS-grade material is engineered for analytical and industrial applications requiring minimal impurities. It features a specific gravity of approximately 0.805 g/mL at 25°C and a boiling range of 79–81°C, ensuring predictable evaporation rates in controlled environments.

As an ACS Reagent Grade solvent, this product meets stringent specifications for purity (typically ≥99.0%), low water content, and trace metal limits. It is designed for use in High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), pharmaceutical extraction, and high-performance coating formulations. The solvent provides excellent solvency for resins, adhesives, and gums while maintaining the chemical consistency required for sensitive laboratory workflows.

Key Properties

• Chemical Name: Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
• Synonyms: 2-Butanone, Butanone
• Grade: ACS Reagent Grade
• CAS Number: 78-93-3
• Formula: C4H8O
• Purity (Assay): ≥99.0%
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Boiling Point: 79-81°C
• Flash Point: -9°C to 11°C (Closed Cup)
• Specific Gravity: 0.805 g/mL (25°C)
• Water Content: ≤0.05%

Common Applications

• HPLC Mobile Phase: Utilized in reversed-phase chromatography due to UV transparency and low residue.
• Surface Coating Solvents: Acts as a primary solvent in high-solids acrylic, urethane, and vinyl coatings.
• Adhesive Formulations: Effective thinner for reducing viscosity in industrial adhesives and sealants.
• Precision Cleaning: Removes oils, resins, and residues from metal parts and manufacturing equipment.
• Chemical Synthesis: Functions as a reaction medium or extraction solvent in pharmaceutical processing.

Safety Precautions

Flammability Warning: MEK is a Class 3 Flammable Liquid. Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources, sparks, and open flames. Use only non-sparking tools and grounded equipment during transfer.

Handling: Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including solvent-resistant gloves and safety goggles. Use in a fume hood or well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of vapors. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed emergency and disposal procedures.

Benefits

• ACS Grade Purity: Complies with ACS Reagent standards for reliable analytical results.
• High Solvency: Effectively dissolves a wide range of resins, gums, and cellulose esters.
• Low Residue: Minimal non-volatile matter (≤0.001%) prevents contamination in sensitive processes.
• Versatile Packaging: Available in sizes ranging from 1 Quart bottles to 55 Gallon drums.

Related Products

• Cyclohexanone ACS Grade
• Cyclohexanone Technical Grade
• Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) Technical Grade